How do you get rid of mold in a house?

To get rid of mold, locate it, empty the room and wash the molded surface multiple times. You need a tape measure, a bucket, a sponge, water, detergent, bleach, duct tape, plastic sheeting and safety equipment. It takes roughly 2 hours.

1. Locate the mold

   Look for fuzzy, black or white growth in areas that are prone to moisture. Try to detect musty smells.

2. Measure the mold

   If the mold encompasses an area of more than 10 feet, hire a professional to eliminate it safely. Less than 10 feet of mold can be handled by most homeowners.

3. Prepare the room

   Open windows for ventilation. Seal off any air vents with duct tape and plastic sheeting. Move furniture and other items into a room free of mold. Discard objects that are ruined by mold.

4. Protect yourself

   Cover your eyes with safety goggles. Wear impermeable gloves and a particle mask approved by the Occupational Safety & Health Administration.

5. Wash the mold

   Mix a solution of 1 cup of detergent and 1 gallon of water. Wash the surface with a sponge, and allow it to dry. Wash it once again with a solution made of 1 gallon of water and 1/4 cup of bleach. Wash the molded area or item three times. After 20 minutes, wash the surface with a solution made of 1 cup of a borate-based detergent and 1 gallon of water. Do not rinse after the final wash.